Resilient Leadership and Well-being: Early Insights from an Ongoing Study

Resilient Leadership & Well-being

How we lead and support people in the workplace is evolving, with resilient leadership and well-being now firmly in the spotlight. Drawing on early-stage data from an ongoing study, a range of interesting themes is emerging about how leadership must adapt to meet the demands of modern workplaces.

This feedback comes from professionals across industries, offering practical insights into building resilience and fostering well-being.

1. What Defines a Resilient Leader?

Resilient leaders, according to respondents, embody several key traits:

• Understanding and empathy: Leaders who connect with their teams and balance professional demands with personal considerations are highly valued.

• Adaptability and calmness under pressure: These qualities help leaders guide their teams effectively through challenges.

• Self-awareness: A resilient leader recognises their limitations and actively works within them while supporting others.

  
  

These traits reflect a shift away from traditional top-down leadership styles towards a more supportive, collaborative approach.

2. The Changing Role of Leadership in Well-being

Leadership, as many respondents noted, needs to evolve better to address mental and physical well-being in the workplace:

• Investing in education and training for leaders, ensuring they understand well-being as a multi-faceted concept.

• Supporting flexible working environments and offering well-being initiatives tailored to the individual needs of employees.

  
  

There’s a clear message: leadership is about more than meeting targets. It’s about creating the right conditions for people to thrive.

3. Recovery Resources: An Alarming Absence

A particularly sobering finding from this study is that 100% of respondents reported their workplace does not offer recovery resources, such as areas to exercise or sleep pods. In a world where workplace demands are increasing, this complete absence of support is alarming.

Recovery isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. Evidence shows that access to recovery spaces can improve focus, energy levels, and resilience while reducing the risk of burnout. Yet organisations appear to be overlooking this critical component of employee well-being.

This gap represents a significant opportunity for change:

• Providing recovery resources, even in small steps, could have a transformative impact on employee performance and morale.

• It sends a clear message that the organisation values its people beyond their immediate output.

  
  

Recovery must be seen as part of the well-being puzzle, not a fringe benefit. It’s time to shift perspectives and prioritise spaces for rest, recharge, and renewal.

4. Technology as a Well-being Tool

Emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) were highlighted as tools with significant potential:

• Respondents suggested these could make well-being initiatives more engaging and widely accessible.

• However, there is a healthy level of scepticism from some participants, who pointed out the need to balance innovation with practical, immediate outcomes.

  
  

It’s clear that while technology offers exciting opportunities, its effectiveness will depend on thoughtful implementation.

5. Sustainability and Well-being: A Winning Combination

When asked about linking sustainability efforts to well-being, respondents proposed simple but impactful actions:

• Encouraging active commuting, such as cycling or walking, supports both physical health and environmental goals.

• Reducing long commutes by positioning offices strategically to cut transportation stress.

  
  

This perspective underscores the interconnectedness of sustainability and well-being, showing how one can support the other.

6. Alternative Perspectives

While the majority welcomed the idea of integrated wellness programs, a few respondents expressed caution. Some questioned whether such initiatives genuinely prioritise employee needs or are merely corporate box-ticking exercises. These views serve as a reminder that trust and transparency are vital for success.

Final Thoughts

The early findings of this ongoing study reveal a wealth of actionable insights for organisations aiming to strengthen leadership and improve workplace well-being. From redefining leadership traits to embracing technology, addressing recovery gaps, and linking sustainability with well-being, the opportunities are clear.

However, success will require a consistent focus on authenticity and a commitment to understanding the unique needs of each individual.

Recovery, in particular, is a glaring gap that organisations must address urgently. Providing spaces to recharge is not just a nice to have, it’s a necessity in building resilient teams and future-proof workplaces.

As this study continues, it will uncover even more ways to create environments where people and organisations can truly thrive.